-
In a game that will be remembered as one of the most thrilling divisional clashes in recent NFC South history, the Atlanta Falcons rallied from a 14-point fourth-quarter deficit to defeat the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 29-28 on Thursday Night Football.
The hero of the night? None other than tight end Kyle Pitts, who delivered a historic performance that single-handedly kept the Falcons in the fight and propelled them to victory.
Kyle Putts Explodes With Banner Night
Pitts finished with career highs across the board: 11 receptions on 12 targets for 166 yards and 3 touchdowns.
It was the first three-TD game of his five-year NFL career and marked the first time a tight end has posted 150+ receiving yards and 3+ touchdowns in a single game since Hall of Famer Shannon Sharpe did it in 1996.
With star wideout Drake London sidelined for the fourth straight game, Pitts stepped into the spotlight and dominated the Buccaneers’ secondary from the opening drive.
He hauled in touchdown catches of 8, 17, and 7 yards from quarterback Kirk Cousins, including a leaping, acrobatic grab in the fourth quarter that pulled Atlanta within 28-26.
“This is who Kyle Pitts is right here,” running back Bijan Robinson said postgame. Cousins, who threw for 373 yards and all three scores to Pitts, added: “Kyle is our guy.”
The Falcons overcame a franchise-record 19 penalties and trailed 28-14 early in the fourth before mounting the comeback.
Falcons Head Coach Raheem Morris said this after the game:
“It’s a really good football game, well fought by the team. Couldn’t be more proud of how those guys stayed resilient throughout the course of the game, and they found a way to win tonight. That’s what we’ve been talking about all year, you know, seeing us make big-time plays when they were required. It was a lot of fun watching those guys both compete.”
Third and 28
A key third-and-28 conversion to Pitts on the final drive helped set up Zane Gonzalez’s game-winning 43-yard field goal as time expired.
While the win doesn’t salvage Atlanta’s playoff hopes (the Falcons sit at 5-9), it was a statement performance from Pitts, a pending free agent who reminded everyone why he was selected No. 4 overall in 2021. Against a Bucs defense he’s tormented in recent matchups, Pitts looked unstoppable.
For Falcons fans, nights like this are a glimpse of what could have been — and perhaps what still could be. Pitts’ monster outing not only spoiled Tampa Bay’s division lead (dropping the Bucs to 7-7, half a game behind Carolina) but reaffirmed his elite talent on a national stage.
Final Word
Up next, the Falcons head to Arizona for Week 16. If Pitts carries this momentum forward, the final games of 2025 could be must-watch for Dirty Bird Nation. Rise Up!
-
University of Georgia football fans, it’s time to circle those dates on your calendars and stock up on red and black gear.
The Bulldogs’ 2026 schedule dropped late Thursday night, promising another grueling yet exhilarating slate of games that could propel the Dawgs back into national championship contention.
Georgia Releases 2026 Football Schedule
The schedule features nine SEC showdowns, seven home tilts at the iconic Sanford Stadium, and a marquee neutral-site battle against Florida in Atlanta.
Head coach Kirby Smart and his staff will have their hands full, with road trips to powerhouses like Alabama and Ole Miss, but Athens faithful can look forward to electric atmospheres under the lights for key home games against Oklahoma, Auburn, and archrival Georgia Tech.
“This is the kind of schedule that tests champions,” Georgia superfan Mick Sims said from Athens. “We’re building a roster to compete in every moment, and in Sanford, we’re unbeatable.”
The season kicks off with a pair of nonconference tune-ups at home, giving the Bulldogs a chance to shake off any early rust before diving into SEC play. Here’s a game-by-game breakdown:
- Sept. 5: vs. Tennessee State (Home) – The opener against the FCS Tigers from the Big South-OVC should provide a confidence booster in front of a raucous Sanford crowd.
- Sept. 12: vs. Western Kentucky (Home) – Another nonconference foe, the Hilltoppers bring Group of Five experience to Athens for what figures to be a comfortable early win.
- Sept. 19: at Arkansas (Away) – The Dawgs hit the road for their SEC debut in Fayetteville, where the Razorbacks always play with fire.
- Sept. 26: vs. Oklahoma (Home) – A blockbuster nonconference clash! The Sooners, fresh in the SEC fold, come to town in a matchup that could echo the intensity of past Red River rivalries.
- Oct. 3: vs. Vanderbilt (Home) – The Commodores visit for a winnable SEC game, but no one overlooks Vandy’s occasional upsets.
- Oct. 10: at Alabama (Away) – Circle this one in blood-red ink. A trip to Tuscaloosa for the Iron Bowl? No, wait – it’s Georgia-Alabama, the SEC’s premier grudge match, where legacies are forged (or shattered).
- Oct. 17: vs. Auburn (Home) – Deep South’s Oldest Rivalry returns to Athens, promising fireworks between two programs with deep historical roots.
- Oct. 24: Off (Bye Week) – A much-needed breather after a brutal stretch, allowing the team to recharge midway through the season.
- Oct. 31: vs. Florida (Neutral, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta) – The World’s Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party moves to the Georgia Dome’s successor due to ongoing renovations at Jacksonville’s EverBank Stadium. Expect a sea of red and orange in the dome – neutral site or not, this one’s always a war.
- Nov. 7: at Ole Miss (Away) – The Rebels’ Vaught-Hemingway Stadium will be rocking, but Georgia has owned this series lately.
- Nov. 14: vs. Missouri (Home) – The Tigers come calling in a rematch of recent nail-biters; fans are already buzzing about a third straight meeting.
- Nov. 21: at South Carolina (Away) – Shane Beamer’s Gamecocks have turned Williams-Brice into a cauldron – the Dawgs will need to bring their A-game.
- Nov. 28: vs. Georgia Tech (Home) – Clean, Old-Fashioned Hate caps the regular season in Athens. Nothing says Thanksgiving weekend like a rivalry beatdown.
Game times and TV designations will be revealed later, but with seven home dates – including those SEC heavy-hitters – Sanford Stadium is set for another season of sellouts and seismic stomps.
Local boosters are already planning tailgate expansions along Lumpkin Street, and downtown Athens bars like The World Famous are teasing “Schedule Release Parties” this weekend.
Fan reactions poured in fast on social media. “12-0, book it!” one supporter tweeted, while others noted the “brutal” SEC gauntlet and questioned the rotation bringing Alabama and Ole Miss back-to-back years.
Athens resident and lifelong Dawg Phillip Rodes echoed the sentiment: “I thought we were rotating opponents – Ole Miss and Bama for the third straight? Bring it on!”
As the 2025 season winds down with bowl aspirations still alive, this 2026 reveal has reignited the fire in Athens.
The Bulldogs, fresh off another playoff push, enter the offseason with momentum and a roadmap to glory. Go Dawgs – the road to Atlanta (and beyond) starts now.
-
The Atlanta Falcons play the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Thursday in Floirda. With Kirk Cousins back under center, the question remains: Can the Falcons win it?
These international games are always high-profile for the NFL and this is no different, with both teams vying for a Super Bowl. Below, you’ll find all the details on how to watch their upcoming game and a look at the historical context of this storied matchup.
The Falcons are eager to see how their new team competes for the 2025 schedule wraps.
- Matchup: Atlanta Falcons (4-9) vs New York Jets (7-6)
- Date & Time: Sunday, Dec. 11, 2025, at 7:15 p.m. ET
- Location: Raymond-James Stadium, Tampa, Fla.
- Streaming: free at fubuTV
- TV Channel: Amazon Prime
If you want to see the game, or more accurately, watch the game on TV, you’ve got options, including streaming and more.
This article will go over some ways you can watch the Falcons for free.
Can I Stream The Falcons Game?
You can watch the Falcons games live throughout the season with YoutubeTV’s NFL Sunday Ticket, which costs $479.99 for the 2024 season. It includes access to over 160 out-of-market NFL games on Sunday afternoons. College students can get the subscription for $199.
Here are some ways you can never miss a down of Falcons football this season.
Watch On Cable TV
In Atlanta, you can usually watch the Falcons on FOX 5, which is the local TV affiliate in the market. You can watch the game for free across all devices — just sign in with your TV provider credentials.
Alternatively, you can buy a pretty cheap antenna for less than $20 to tune in local channels around your area.
Sign Up For A Streaming Service
You can watch the Falcons game for free at fubuTV, which has a 7-day trial. Watch immediately upon signup.
Watch On The Falcons App
Watch the games live on the official Falcons mobile app for iOS or Android. On the app, you can watch highlights, game previews and exclusive content from the team.
Watch On The NFL App
The NFL’s Mobile App (iOS and Android) has access to all your favorite games, including the Atlanta Falcons.
Once you download the app, you can tune in to live local and primetime games.
Falcons vs. Tampa Bay: A History
The Atlanta Falcons and Tampa Bay Buccaneers have one of the NFL’s most evenly matched divisional rivalries, dating back to 1977 when the Bucs entered the league as an expansion team. As NFC South foes since the division’s formation in 2002, their games often feature high stakes, physical play, and narrow margins.
The series is a study in back-and-forth dominance, with lead changes, long streaks, and memorable upsets. As of December 11, 2025—prior to tonight’s Week 15 matchup in Tampa—the all-time regular-season record stands tied at 32-32 across 64 games.All-Time Head-to-Head Record
Category Falcons Wins Bucs Wins Ties Total Games Notes Overall Regular Season 32 32 0 64 Tied series; average score 22.6-22.6 PPG. Home Games (Falcons) 18 14 0 32 Falcons edge at home. Away Games (Falcons) 14 18 0 32 Bucs stronger on the road. Postseason 1 0 0 1 Falcons’ lone playoff win: 2002 NFC Wild Card (47-35 in Tampa). Sources: Aggregated from Pro-Football-Reference, StatMuse, AiScore, and Champs or Chumps (as of 2025 season Week 14). Note: Some sources list slight variations due to recency of 2025 games, but consensus confirms the 32-32 tie before tonight’s game.Recent Results (Last 10 Games, 2020–2025)The Bucs hold a 6-4 edge in the most recent stretch, including a three-game winning streak entering 2025. Here’s a summary:
Date Location Result (Falcons Score – Bucs Score) Key Notes Sep 7, 2025 Home L 20-23 Bucs’ Baker Mayfield threw a game-winning TD; Falcons’ last loss. Oct 27, 2024 Away W 31-26 Falcons swept the 2024 season series. Oct 3, 2024 Home W 36-30 High-scoring affair; Kirk Cousins’ Falcons rally. Nov 26, 2023 Home W 29-25 Bijan Robinson’s breakout game for ATL. Oct 22, 2023 Away L 17-20 Bucs’ last-second field goal. Sep 18, 2022 Away L 14-27 Bucs dominate with Tom Brady. Oct 24, 2021 Home L 28-34 (OT) Bucs’ comeback in overtime. Sep 19, 2021 Away L 17-48 Bucs sweep 2021; Mike Evans explodes. Dec 20, 2020 Home W 44-27 Matt Ryan’s 4 TDs lead Falcons. Sep 20, 2020 Away L 10-31 Bucs’ defense stifles ATL. Historical Highlights and Streaks
- Longest Winning Streaks:
- Falcons: 9 games (1988–1994), including a 43-7 thrashing in 1991 under Jerry Glanville.
- Bucs: 10 games (1979–1983 and 1997–2003), with a brutal 48-10 win in 1987 marking their largest margin (38 points).
- Largest Victories:
- Falcons: 56-14 (home, 2014) – 42-point blowout with Matt Ryan throwing 6 TDs.
- Bucs: 48-10 (home, 1987) – 38-point rout during their early playoff era.
- Playoff Clash: The only postseason meeting was a 2002 wild-card thriller where Michael Vick’s Falcons upset the defending champion Bucs 47-35 in Tampa, ending TB’s season.
- Divisional Era (2002–Present): 22 games, Falcons lead 12-10. Games average 46.5 total points, with over 60% going over betting totals.
- Rivalry Intensity: Feuds between coaches like Glanville and Sam Wyche in the ’90s added spice, while recent stars like Tom Brady (Bucs) and Matt Ryan (Falcons) have traded barbs. The series has seen 13 lead changes, underscoring its parity.
Final Word
The Falcons have often relied on their offensive firepower, with players like running back Bijan Robinson (1,286 yards, 12 TDs in 2024) and wide receiver Drake London (90 catches, 1,084 yards, 7 TDs in 2024). How will it go this year?
As an additional way, you can watch the Falcons for free (Prime Video) on Thursday Night Football.
It happens once this season, and you can read all about it.
-
The Atlanta Falcons are gearing up for more global gridiron glory, as the NFL announced on Wednesday, Dec. 10 that the team will host an international regular-season game as the designated home side during the 2026 campaign.
Details on the location, date, time, and opponent remain under wraps, but Falcons fans can already mark their calendars for another chapter in the franchise’s growing international legacy.
Falcons Get International Game for 2026
This upcoming matchup will mark the fifth time the Falcons have taken their red-and-black show on the road—or in this case, abroad—for a regular-season tilt, building on a history that dates back over a decade and spans two continents.
The team’s overseas odyssey began in 2014, when they stepped onto the hallowed turf of Wembley Stadium in London as the home team, facing off against the Detroit Lions in a 21-20 thriller that showcased American football’s appeal to British audiences. That victory kicked off a mixed but memorable run for Atlanta on foreign soil.
The Falcons returned to London in 2021, again as the home team, but fell short in a 20-0 shutout loss to the New York Jets—a game played amid the lingering shadows of the COVID-19 pandemic, with limited crowds and heightened protocols.
Undeterred, Atlanta made a triumphant return to Wembley in 2023, this time as the visiting squad against the Jacksonville Jaguars, rallying for a 23-7 win that highlighted their resilience and the electric atmosphere of the English capital.
Most recently, in 2025, the Falcons ventured further east to Berlin, Germany, for the NFL’s inaugural regular-season game in the city. Hosting the Indianapolis Colts at the Olympiastadion, they secured a hard-fought 27-23 victory, improving their international record to 3-1 and cementing Germany’s rising status as a hotbed for the sport.
These games represent just the tip of the Falcons’ global footprint. The franchise’s international flirtations trace back even further, to preseason exhibitions like the American Bowl series.
In 2000 and 2005, Atlanta jetted to Tokyo, Japan, for high-energy clashes against the Dallas Cowboys and Indianapolis Colts, respectively, drawing massive crowds and introducing NFL flair to enthusiastic Japanese fans.
While those were exhibition affairs, they laid the groundwork for the regular-season expansions that have since become a staple of the league’s worldwide push.
For loyal supporters stateside, the news comes with a silver lining: Season ticket holders’ 2026 memberships will still deliver the full home slate at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, comprising one preseason contest and eight regular-season games.
Falcons executive vice president of sales and marketing Steve Cannon emphasized the team’s commitment to its core fanbase, noting in a statement, “Our international games are about growing the game globally, but Atlanta remains the heart of our roar.”As anticipation builds, the Falcons promised more intel on the 2026 international showdown—including ticket sales and fan travel packages—once the NFL locks in the specifics.
Final Word
In an era where the league is eyeing new frontiers from Madrid to São Paulo, Atlanta’s repeated role as an international ambassador underscores its front-office savvy and on-field appeal.
For now, Dirty Birds everywhere can dream of another Wembley roar or perhaps a debut in Dublin or Dublin—wherever the gridiron globe takes them next.
-
It’s been a banner year for college football and if you’re a Georgia Bulldogs fan, it’s been great: packed stadiums, national ranking, double-digit wins. But you have to wonder, what teams are other fans watching?
To find out, we’ve compiled the top 10 most-watched teams based on Nielsen’s Big Data + Panel ratings through the end of the 2025 regular season (the most recent comprehensive update available as of late December 2025).
What College Football Teams Are the Most Watched?
These rankings reflect average viewership per game across Nielsen-measured broadcasts (e.g., ABC, FOX, NBC, ESPN, CBS).
Note that games on networks like SEC Network, ACC Network, and CBS Sports Network are not included in Nielsen’s data, which may slightly understate totals for some SEC and ACC teams. Overall college football viewership is up 2% year-over-year using this methodology.
The SEC owned eight of the top 10 spots, underscoring the conference’s unrivaled draw amid a season of thrilling matchups and playoff implications. Here’s the list, ranked by average viewers per game:
Rank Team Conference Average Viewers (Millions) 1 Alabama SEC 8.49 2 Texas SEC 7.55 3 Georgia SEC 7.48 4 Ohio State Big Ten 6.57 5 Oklahoma SEC 6.47 6 LSU SEC 6.42 7 Tennessee SEC 6.21 8 Auburn SEC 5.26 9 Michigan Big Ten 5.08 10 Texa A&M SEC 4.99 Key Insights:
- Alabama’s Lead: The Crimson Tide topped the charts thanks to marquee games like their Week 1 loss to Florida State (10.66M viewers) and a Week 5 win over Georgia (10.4M), both on ABC.
- SEC Surge: The conference’s seven entries align with ABC airing nine of the season’s 10 most-watched games, including the record Week 1 Texas-Ohio State clash (16.62M).
- Non-SEC Standouts: Ohio State benefited from the season’s biggest game, while Notre Dame and Miami drew from high-stakes ACC/Independent matchups like Miami-Notre Dame (10.81M).
- Caveats: These averages are from measured games only; Tennessee’s figure excludes six SEC Network broadcasts, potentially boosting their true average.
These rankings may shift slightly with postseason data, but they capture the regular season’s viewer trends. If you’d like breakdowns by specific games or conference comparisons, let me know!
Final Word
As we wrap up the 2025 college football regular season here in Athens, Georgia—home of the Bulldogs, who clocked in at a strong No. 3 with massive SEC-fueled viewership—Nielsen’s latest data highlights the teams that dominated TV screens across the nation.
More from AtlantaFi.com:
-
The Bulldogs are once again headed to Bourbon Street as Georgia awaits its College Football Playoff opponents the Crescent City: New Orleans.
The Allstate Sugar Bowl, a New Orleans tradition since 1935, returns to the Caesars Superdome on January 1, 2026, hosting a College Football Playoff quarterfinal clash that pits the powerhouse Georgia Bulldogs against the winner of the first-round matchup between No. 6 Ole Miss and No. 11 Tulane.
It’s a dream (or nightmare) scenario for local fans: The Tulane Green Wave could crash the party against the SEC juggernaut, or we’ll see a classic Southern showdown between the Bulldogs and Rebels.
The bracket was unveiled Dec. 7 during ESPN’s selection show, confirming Georgia’s spot as the No. 3 overall seed after their dominant 28-7 dismantling of No. 9 Alabama in the SEC Championship Game.
The Bulldogs, coached by Kirby Smart, earned a first-round bye with an 11-1 regular-season record, their lone loss a heartbreaker to Alabama earlier this fall.
Now, they’re hungry for redemption after last year’s bitter 23-10 Sugar Bowl defeat to Notre Dame right here in the Dome — a game that still stings for Athens faithful.
The Road to the Dome: How We Got Here
Georgia’s path to New Orleans has been a grind of grit and glory. The Bulldogs started hot with blowout wins over Marshall (45-7) and Austin Peay (28-6), then survived a wild overtime thriller at Tennessee (44-41).
A midseason stumble against Alabama (24-21) tested their mettle, but they roared back with convincing victories over Kentucky (35-14), Auburn (20-10), and a high-octane 43-35 shootout against Ole Miss on October 18.
November brought more dominance: road wins at Florida (24-20) and Mississippi State (41-21), a statement 35-10 thumping of Texas, and a gritty 16-9 rivalry triumph over Georgia Tech.
Quarterback Gunner Stockton has been the steady hand, slinging for over 1,800 yards and 18 touchdowns while keeping turnovers low.
Running back Nate Frazier and wideout Dominic Lovett have been explosive, but it’s the Bulldogs’ suffocating defense — led by All-SEC linebacker CJ Allen — that has opponents averaging just 18 points per game.
Georgia’s +22 turnover margin is the best in the nation, a stat that could prove decisive in the thin New Orleans air (okay, humidity).
On the other side of the bracket, the Ole Miss-Tulane first-rounder on December 20 in Oxford promises fireworks
The Rebels (10-2), coached by Lane Kiffin, boast a high-flying offense with quarterback Jaxson Dart and a stable of playmakers, but their defense has leaked points late in the season.
Tulane (9-3), our local heroes under Jon Sumrall, rides a wave of momentum after an undefeated American Athletic Conference slate, powered by running back Makhi Hughes’ ground-and-pound attack.
A Green Wave upset? The Bayou would erupt louder than Mardi Gras.
What to Watch For in the Sugar Bowl
- Bulldogs’ Ground Game vs. Pass Rush: Georgia’s rushing attack (over 200 yards per game) will test Ole Miss’s shaky front seven or Tulane’s undersized but scrappy line. If Stockton stays clean in the pocket, expect big plays down the field.
- Superdome Magic: The Dome’s roof means no weather excuses, but the noise from 70,000+ fans — many waving red-and-black pom-poms — could rattle the visitors. Local tie: Tulane’s upset bid would make this the ultimate underdog story.
- Path to Glory: A Georgia win sends them to the Peach Bowl semifinal on January 9 against the Fiesta Bowl victor. The national title game awaits January 19 in Miami.
Tickets are already flying off the shelves at Caesars Superdome box offices and online — grab yours now before the scalpers descend like a second-line parade.
Tailgate spots along Poydras Street are prime real estate, and expect Bourbon Street to be a sea of red, navy, and olive green on New Year’s Day.
This Sugar Bowl isn’t just a game; it’s a celebration of Southern football soul, right in the heart of New Orleans.
Whether it’s Georgia’s dynasty quest or a Tulane miracle, one thing’s certain: the Who Dat Nation will show up loud. Stay tuned to Crescent City Sports for pre-game analysis, player profiles, and live coverage. Geaux Tigers? Nah, this year it’s Geaux Dawgs… or Geaux Waves!
-
In a stadium that once echoed with the roars of Super Bowl dreams, Mercedes-Benz Stadium fell eerily silent Sunday afternoon as the Atlanta Falcons suffered a 37-9 thrashing at the hands of the Seattle Seahawks.
The defeat wasn’t just another notch in a disappointing ledger—it was the final nail in the coffin for any lingering playoff hopes, officially eliminating the Dirty Birds from postseason contention for the eighth consecutive year.
Falcons Eliminated From Playoff Contention
With a 4-9 record through 13 weeks, Atlanta has now locked in its eighth straight losing campaign, matching the franchise’s darkest stretch since the lean years of the early 2000s.
For a fanbase still haunted by the ghosts of 28-3 and the what-ifs of Matt Ryan’s prime, this season’s spiral feels less like a dip and more like a deliberate nosedive.
What started with flickers of promise—a gritty 22-6 road win over the Vikings in Week 2 and a 34-27 thriller against the Commanders—has devolved into a parade of close calls and blowouts.
The Falcons sit dead last in the NFC South, outscored by 61 points overall, and staring down a schedule that includes winnable matchups against the Buccaneers, Cardinals, Rams, and Saints. But with momentum as elusive as a clean pocket for the quarterback, the question on every Rise Up faithful’s mind is: Why can’t this team win?
A Schedule of Squandered Opportunities
Dig into the tape, and the Falcons’ 4-9 mark reveals a cruel pattern: heartbreak in the margins. Of their nine losses, five have come by a single score or less, including gut-wrenching defeats like 27-24 to the Jets on Nov. 30, 24-23 at the Patriots on Nov. 2, and 31-25 at the Colts on Nov. 9.
These aren’t the blowouts of a fundamentally broken team; they’re the hallmarks of a squad that teases competence before crumbling under pressure.
The Week 14 debacle against Seattle encapsulated it all. Tied 6-6 at halftime after a field-goal exchange, Atlanta’s defense—once a midseason bright spot—unraveled spectacularly.
The Seahawks piled on 31 second-half points, including three touchdown passes to exploit a secondary that couldn’t cover in space.
Atlanta’s offense, meanwhile, managed just three points after the break, settling for punts and turnovers when big plays were needed most.
It’s the eighth time this season the Falcons have allowed 24 or more points in a loss, a defensive inefficiency that’s turned potential upsets into autopsy reports.
Quarterback Quandary: Cousins’ Shadow Looms Large
No analysis of this Falcons fiasco is complete without zooming in on the signal-caller carousel. Kirk Cousins, signed to a blockbuster deal last offseason to steady the ship, appeared in just six games before a season-ending Achilles tweak in Week 6 against the 49ers.
His replacement, rookie Michael Penix Jr., flashed arm talent in spots—like the first three games, when the Falcons found themselves at 2-1—but inconsistency has plagued the unit.
Atlanta ranks 22nd in passing yards per game (212.4) and dead last in red-zone efficiency (48.3% touchdown rate), often stalling drives with conservative play-calling and protection breakdowns.The numbers don’t lie: In losses, the Falcons average a measly 17.2 points per game, compared to 28.5 in wins.
Penix’s deep-ball accuracy (42% completion on 20+ yard throws) offers hope, but without a reliable run game to complement it—more on that below—the pressure mounts. Fans on social media are already clamoring for a veteran bridge in free agency, with hashtags like #FireTheOC trending after Sunday’s no-show.
Defensive Decay and Injury Avalanche
If the offense is sputtering, the defense is leaking oil. Coordinated by Jimmy Lake, the unit started hot, holding opponents to 18.3 points per game through Week 5. But since then? A porous 28.1 allowed, with Seattle’s 37 the latest indignity.
Pass rushers like Arnold Ebiketie and Leonard Floyd have combined for just 6.5 sacks, leaving quarterbacks comfy in clean pockets.
The secondary, anchored by Jessie Bates III, has been torched for 7.9 yards per pass attempt, exacerbated by injuries to A.J. Terrell (hamstring, out four weeks) and Mike Hughes (concussion protocol).
Speaking of ailments, Atlanta’s medical tent could double as a tailgate spot. Beyond Cousins, the Falcons have lost starting tackles Jake Matthews (knee) and Kaleb McGary (elbow) for multiple games, crippling the line that was supposed to pave lanes for a dynamic backfield.
Depth pieces like Elijah Wilkinson have stepped up, but the toll shows: Atlanta’s 31st in the league against the run (142.7 yards allowed per game), turning explosive plays for opponents into routine daggers.
Coaching Carousel Whispers and Accountability Gaps
Whispers of hot seats have grown to roars, with head coach Raheem Morris squarely in the crosshairs.
Hired with fanfare to bring defensive grit, Morris’s squad ranks 25th in total defense and 28th in scoring defense—hardly the blueprint for contention.
Critics point to conservative late-game decisions, like punting on fourth-and-short in the red zone against the Jets, and a lack of adjustments that let Seattle steamroll in the second half. As one social media user put it post-game: “Eight years of this? Time for a full reset, starting at the top.”
General manager Terry Fontenot faces heat too, with the 2025 draft class—headlined by a mid-round linebacker who’s seen limited snaps—failing to inject immediate juice. The front office’s aggressive spending on Cousins and edge rushers hasn’t translated, leaving Atlanta with cap hell looming in 2026.
Silver Linings in the Storm Clouds
Amid the malaise, glimmers persist. Running back Bijan Robinson is a bona fide star, exploding for 1,683 all-purpose yards and 7 touchdowns, including a 83.2-yard rushing average that ranks top-5 league-wide.
Tyler Allgeier complements him with bruising efficiency (8 rushing TDs), while wideout Drake London (810 yards, 6 TDs in 9 games) remains a matchup nightmare when healthy. Tight end Kyle Pitts, despite modest output (631 yards), stretches seams like few others.
These pieces suggest a core worth building around, especially with the No. 8 overall draft pick in sight—a spot ripe for a game-wrecking defensive lineman or offensive line anchor.
The Road to Redemption
As the Falcons limp toward a meaningless December—hosting the Rams on Dec. 29 and closing against the Saints on Jan. 4— the focus shifts to evaluation.
Will ownership greenlight a coaching purge? Can Penix prove he’s the future? For now, Atlanta’s faithful deserve answers, not excuses.
The eighth straight losing season stings, but in a league of parity, one offseason overhaul could reignite the fire. Until then, the A-T-L remains a city of unfulfilled promise, waiting for its birds to soar again.
-
In a statement win that silenced doubters and avenged an earlier-season heartbreak, the No. 3 Georgia Bulldogs steamrolled the No. 9 Alabama Crimson Tide 28-7 on Saturday night at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, securing their second consecutive SEC Championship and a likely first-round bye in the expanded College Football Playoff.
The victory, played out before a raucous crowd of 77,247 decked out in red and black, marks the program’s 16th conference title and ends a frustrating four-game skid against Alabama in SEC title tilts.
Dawgs Repeat as SEC Champs
It was a night of pure dominance for Kirby Smart’s squad, who entered the matchup hungry after dropping a razor-thin 24-21 decision to the Tide back on Sept. 28 in Athens as part of a grueling 2025 schedule.
Stockton Rises To the Occasion
Quarterback Gunner Stockton, stepping up with poise under the bright lights, orchestrated four touchdown drives, tossing three scores while adding 39 rushing yards on 13 carries.
His connection with wideout Zion Branch proved lethal, capped by a 13-yard dart in the fourth quarter that sent the Dawg Nation into a frenzy and sealed the deal at 28-7 with 6:51 remaining.
“It’s all about execution,” Stockton said postgame, his voice hoarse from shouting over the roar of the Dawg Walk earlier in the evening. “We knew we had unfinished business with these guys.
Stout Defense Steps Up Yet Again
The defense gave us short fields, and we just had to cash in.
“That defense? A brick wall. Georgia’s unit, ranked among the nation’s elite all season, suffocated Alabama’s offense, limiting them to a measly 103 total yards and just three plays inside Bulldog territory through three quarters.
The Tide managed a late cosmetic touchdown, but it was too little, too late against a front seven that sacked QB Ty Simpson twice and forced three punts in the opening half alone.
Linebacker CJ Allen led the charge with eight tackles and a forced fumble, while the secondary—bolstered by All-SEC cornerback Daylen Everette’s tip-drill interception in the first quarter—blanketed Alabama’s receivers.
No opponent has topped 21 points against Georgia since mid-October, and Saturday’s shutout through three quarters extended that streak of defensive mastery.The game kicked off with Georgia asserting control early.
After Everette’s pick set up shop at midfield, Stockton needed just six plays to find tight end Oscar Delp for a 12-yard strike, putting the Bulldogs up 7-0 at the 8:12 mark of the first. Alabama’s response? A three-and-out, courtesy of a third-down sack on Simpson that pinned the Tide deep.
The second quarter belonged to the run game, as tailback Nate Frazier broke free for a 22-yard scamper to the house, extending the lead to 14-0. Stockton wasn’t done, however, capping a clock-chewing 14-play, 57-yard march with a 5-yard laser to Dillon Bell just before halftime.
The Bulldogs headed to the locker room with a commanding two-score edge, having held Alabama to 71 yards on 3.6 yards per play.
Halftime adjustments? Alabama tried to air it out, but Georgia’s secondary swatted down any hopes. A 34-yard punt return by Everette set up Stockton’s third TD toss—this one a bullet to Bell again—making it 21-0 midway through the third.
The Tide finally cracked the scoreboard with 12:33 left in the fourth on a short Germie Oti run, but Branch’s breakaway response extinguished any flicker of a comeback.
With the win, Georgia improves to 12-1 (8-1 SEC), having beaten every team on their slate—including this rematch redemption. The Bulldogs’ only blemish? That September slip-up to Bama, now firmly in the rearview as they eye a potential No. 2 seed in Sunday’s CFP reveal.
Smart, trophy in hand during the on-field ceremony, didn’t mince words about his squad’s grit. “This group believed from Day 1. We’ve got the horses, and tonight we galloped. Now, it’s playoff time—let’s keep the streak alive.”
As the confetti rained down and Ludacris—yes, the ATL native—led the Dawgs in a postgame chant, Athens faithful could exhale.
Nine straight wins, a gleaming SEC crystal football, and a path to January glory. The national title chase? It’s wide open, and Georgia looks every bit the favorite.For now, though, savor the moment. Go Dawgs.
Follow AtlantaFi.com for live coverage of the CFP selection show Sunday at noon on ESPN, and stay tuned for playoff bracket breakdowns.
-
This game is for all the marbles of the Southeastern Conference. The Georgia Bulldogs take on the Alabama Crimson Tide in Atlanta.
Here’s your guide to how to watch Georgia Bulldogs vs. Alabama Crimson Tide in the 2025 SEC Championship Game — what channel it’s on, when it starts, how to stream or listen, and the best ways to catch all the action.
If you don’t have tickets to the game, you’ll want to watch it on TV. This article will show you how.
The Georgia Bulldogs regular schedule has been a tough one, but so are the Dawgs. Wanna watch?How To Watch The Georgia Game
- Date & Time: Saturday, December 6, 2025 — Kickoff at 4:00 p.m. ET
- Location: Mercedes‑Benz Stadium, Atlanta, Georgia
- Matchup: Georgia vs. Alabama. It’s a rematch of their regular-season meeting.
📡 Where to Watch (Live on TV & Streaming)
- The game will be broadcast nationally on ABC.
- If you don’t have cable or standard TV service, you can stream the game via major live-TV streaming services that carry ABC, including: YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, FuboTV, DIRECTV Stream, and in some markets, Sling TV
- Streaming: FuboTV (Free Trial)
Georgia vs. Alabama: A History
Alabama leads the series.
The Crimson Tide have historically dominated the matchup, especially in high-stakes games.The exact record varies slightly depending on postseason counting, but Alabama has consistently held a multi-game lead.
📚 Historical Overview
Early Years (1895–1960s)
- The teams first met in 1895.
- Early meetings were competitive, with Georgia winning several of the first matchups.
- By the 1920s–1940s, Alabama began to assert more control, building the foundation of its long-term dominance.
📈 The Modern Era (1970s–present)
🐘 The Bear Bryant Years
- From the 1970s onward, Alabama – under Bear Bryant – became a national powerhouse.
- Georgia remained strong under Vince Dooley, but the teams did not play annually due to conference scheduling.
🏆 SEC Championship & Major Matchups
1992 SEC Championship Game
- First SEC Championship ever.
- Alabama 28, Georgia 21
- This began the trend of Alabama beating Georgia in title games for decades.
2012 SEC Championship Game
- One of the most intense games in SEC history.
- Alabama 32, Georgia 28
- Georgia’s final play ended five yards short of a game-winning touchdown.
- Winner (Alabama) went on to win the national title.
Final Word
The Georgia Bulldogs, a powerhouse in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), tend to play a few games against smaller schools as part of their non-conference schedule. With the expansion of the conference, a tougher schedule means they can lose every week they play. But Kirby is ready.
Football is a religion in the South. Want to leave the house? Catch all the games at your favorite local bar.
-
FAYETTEVILLE, Ga. — In a move that promises to reshape the landscape of U.S. soccer — and to deepen metro-Atlanta’s role in the sport — U.S. Soccer Federation (USSF) is building what is slated to become the national epicenter of the game in America: the Arthur M. Blank U.S. Soccer National Training Center (NTC).
The development is part of metro Atlanta’s preparations for the FIFA World Cup and beyond.
What the Center Will Include
- The center will occupy roughly 200 acres in Fayette County, just outside of Atlanta — a location chosen in part for its proximity to Atlanta’s main airport and downtown.
- On the grounds: more than a dozen full-sized outdoor fields, along with indoor courts, training turf fields, and sand/beach-soccer areas — designed to accommodate the 27 national teams (men’s, women’s, youth, and extended teams).
- The facility will also house more than 200,000 square feet of performance areas, high-performance training and analysis zones, lockers, meeting rooms, and USSF’s administrative headquarters.
- Indoor space includes around 100,000 square feet of courts to support training, futsal, extended-team practice, and other activities.
- To serve players, staff, visiting teams, and community programs, the center will also feature facilities such as dining and shared spaces. Food and beverage services will be provided by Levy when the center opens.
Timeline & Progress: From Breakground to Beam Raising to Topping-Out
- The project was officially announced in December 2023 — with Fayette County selected as the site for the new headquarters and training center.
- Groundbreaking occurred April 8, 2024, and at that ceremony the center was named after philanthropist and Atlanta sports-owner Arthur M. Blank, who contributed $50 million toward the build.
- The project is estimated at a cost of over $200 million, with more than 400 new jobs expected to be created in the area.
- On June 6, 2025, the NTC celebrated a topping-out ceremony, marking the completion of the structural framework.
- According to USSF and project leaders, the facility remains on track to open in Spring 2026, coinciding with the lead-up to the men’s FIFA World Cup 2026.
Why Fayetteville — and Why Now
Metro Atlanta was selected over several potential sites for several reasons:
- Convenient access to transportation, including Atlanta’s major international airport — important for national-team travel.
- The presence of vibrant, growing communities around the site — including the nearby mixed-use development and community hub Town at Trilith (adjacent to Trilith Studios) — offering potential for community engagement, housing, commerce, and local support.
- An opportunity to unite all facets of the sport (from elite athletes to grassroots coaches and referees) under one roof: for the first time, USSF will have a single, dedicated national home.
- The timing matches a surge in soccer interest across the United States — particularly as the U.S. prepares to host matches for the 2026 World Cup — making it a strategic moment to centralize operations and build infrastructure that can sustain long-term growth.
What It Means for Atlanta, Fayette County, and American Soccer
- For the Atlanta region and Fayette County, the NTC represents a major economic and civic investment — bringing hundreds of jobs, infrastructure improvements, and a global-scale sports facility to the community.
- For players, coaches, and referees across the country, having a dedicated facility offers consistency, improved training conditions, and access to top-tier amenities that match what elite soccer programs in Europe enjoy.
- For fans, youth soccer clubs, and local communities, the center holds potential beyond elite teams: it could become a hub for youth development programs, coaching clinics, community outreach, and more inclusive access to soccer.
- On the national stage, the NTC is a statement of intent — signaling the growth and ambition of U.S. Soccer as it aims to compete globally and produce world-class talent starting right here in Georgia.
What’s Next — And When You Might Get to See It
Construction continues through 2025. With the structural framework complete and outdoor fields already under development, project leaders say the facility is still on track for Spring 2026.
As opening draws closer, expect USSF to begin sharing more details about public events, tours, and youth-community programming tied to the NTC. For Atlanta and Fayette County, while the fields may open to national teams first, the long-term vision touches much wider — from grassroots soccer to social impact.
Keep up with what’s going on in Atlanta’s real estate scene here with our Apartment Guide.
See The Latest Atlanta Real Estate News At AtlantaFi.com.
More Articles From AtlantaFi:
